Paul Morrison, Chief Executive at the Planning Inspectorate, is moving to a new role within the Civil Service from January 2026.
Through his 3-year tenure, Paul has led the Inspectorate through a period of change - introducing a new structure to embed a service culture, growing the organisation to meet the demands of the planning system and accelerating performance to decide planning appeals faster whilst maintaining quality.
To continue this progress, Graham Stallwood has been appointed as Interim Chief Executive ahead of open recruitment in 2026. Graham has been the Chief Operating Officer at the Inspectorate since 2019 and brings a wealth of experience to the role.
Leading the Planning Inspectorate has been a great privilege. During my time here, I'm proud that we've significantly reduced appeal waiting times, modernised digital services and maintained high quality decision-making. None of this would have been possible without the commitment and skill of outstanding colleagues.
I'm confident that the organisation is in excellent hands with Graham Stallwood as Interim CEO. His experience and vision will serve the Planning Inspectorate exceptionally well. After 3 years in this role, now feels like the right moment for a new challenge and I'm excited to return to the Home Office as Director General for Visas, Passports, Citizenship and Resettlement Services.
Paul Morrison
I'm excited to step into this role at the Planning Inspectorate. As a Chartered Planner by profession and having been part of this organisation for 6 years, I know how vital our work is to shaping communities and supporting national priorities including housing delivery and infrastructure development.
I've worked alongside our excellent Inspectorate team and seen their commitment first-hand. I'm determined to ensure we maintain the high standards and certainty that the planning system depends on during this transition.
Graham Stallwood
New Chief Planning Inspector
In the New Year, the Planning Inspectorate will also appoint a new Chief Planning Inspector as Richard Schofield has decided to step back from his role to continue his focus on opportunities beyond PINS, including the extension of his secondment to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. Rebecca Phillips will continue as Interim Chief Planning Inspector during the recruitment process.
Paul Morrison said:
Rich has been a huge asset to the Inspectorate as Chief Planning Inspector. His deep knowledge, passion, and openness in the role have helped to inspire colleagues throughout the system. I am grateful to know he will continue to champion the Inspectorate in government and externally.
To stay up to date with announcements, news and job opportunities from the Planning Inspectorate, you can sign up to the Planning Inspectorate's newsletter .
